By Landing Ceesay
The first international music school in The Gambia was officially launched on 27th August 2021 in Brusubi Phase 1.
The school would be offering classes ranging from vocal training, guitar, keyboard, drums and music production.
Hassoum Ceesay, Director of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) said the establishment of the music school is a very good initiative for the country’s music industry; especially now that Gambian artistes are doing, individually and collectively.
“I am calling on all the young people who are interested in making a career in the music industry to come and get enrolled as soon as possible. I am assuring you that the government will give you all the support you need to nurture young talents in the music industry,” Mr Ceesay stated.
Marco Link, the Chief Executive Officer of the school said Quality infrastructure, supportive administration, large pulling of learning resources, hardworking and brilliant students in the country triggered the establishment of the school.
Chief Executive Officer Marco added that their mission is to shape great talents in the Gambia.
“I always see great talents in The Gambia since I came here. We want to develop Gambian artistes so that they will not hide in the international stages. We will impact quality education as the school has already hired quality [and] experienced teachers all over the world from Ghana, Nigeria and Europe; because we believe that the development of quality education in the education system lies in the commitment of its members,” he stated.
Meanwhile, Momodou M Sarr, President of the Gambia Music Union said the establishment of the Music school is a great initiative that would boost the music industry.
He said the industry lacks enough drummers, while expressing hope that the school would allow the union to have more drummers.
“I am urging you, people, to make everything possible to sustain this school. Because there were a lot of institutions venturing into music schools but lack of sustainability, they had to close those schools. But I have high hopes for this school because you have many instruments available for students,” Sarr stated.
The first International Music School offers classes for Vocals, Guitar, Bass, Keyboard and Drums.
The school also has a fully equipped rehearsal room for bands, a recording studio, classes in sound engineering, music management and recording, as well as rental instruments.